Orthodontic assembly

ABSTRACT

The orthodontic assembly is used in a user&#39;s mouth to facilitate tooth movement. The orthodontic assembly includes an interchangeable clip member configured to be removably affixed to a frame member such that the clip member engages at least one of the user&#39;s teeth. The orthodontic assembly further includes a frame member configured to be removably positioned proximate the lingual portion of user&#39;s teeth. The frame member includes a fastening mechanism configured to cooperatively engage the clip member such that the clip member may be removably affixed to the frame member.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention generally relates to a novel orthodontic assembly. Moreparticularly, the invention relates to an orthodontic assembly having aversatile configuration including interchangeable and flexiblecomponents for causing tooth movement, bite correction and/or toothposition retention, while providing enhanced user comfort.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Conventional orthodontic treatments are generally comprised of eitherfixed or removable components. Typically, the fixed components arebonded or cemented directly to the user's teeth, and a wire is insertedinto brackets of the components and secured using elastomeric ties. Thewire is usually bendable and may be distorted during the installationand adjustment process by the installer, which is typically anorthodontist or dental practitioner.

As the wire is adjusted into its original shape, the wire exerts a forceon the connected tooth or teeth leading to teeth movement. In general,the force applied on teeth with the fixed orthodontic treatment isexerted only by the limited contact of the bracket, which in turn limitsthe contact forces exerted between the wire and the tooth. As such, inorder to properly align the teeth using the fixed orthodontic treatmentprocess, a series of wires are inserted into the brackets connected tothe teeth.

The wire insertion process is typically initiated by inserting the mostflexible wire first, and then inserting additional wires, graduallyincreasing the rigidity of the wire inserted into the brackets, therebymoving the teeth into the selected alignment.

One disadvantage of the above-described method is that the single rootedteeth, or the teeth with shorter roots, have a propensity to move firstand flare forward, prior to the time of insertion of the more rigidwires, which tend to act on the posterior teeth to expand the arch (asin the cases of crowding). Further, when the wire is inserted into thearch, all of the teeth move simultaneously. As a result, treatment of asingle tooth or a limited number of teeth is difficult to achievewithout inadvertently exerting unwanted forces on teeth that are nottargeted for treatment. Moreover, it is difficult to apply specific anddifferent level forces on different teeth at the same time.

Additional problems with a fixed component orthodontic system may becompounded by poor patient oral hygiene and the inherent difficulties ofbrushing and flossing teeth with a fixed orthodontic system applied tothe tooth. Poor oral hygiene may lead to white spots (decalcifications)appearing around the brackets or degeneration of periodontal tissuesurrounding and supporting the teeth Consequently, inflamed gingiva,recession, or irreversible bone loss can occur during orthodontictreatment.

Furthermore, many patients do not like wearing the fixed orthodonticsystem because of the associated difficulties of chewing and eatingand/or because of the undesirable aesthetics.

Removable orthodontic systems used to align the teeth are generallytraditional spring acrylic retainers or clear shells that cover theentire surfaces of the teeth, similar to Invisalign®.

The acrylic spring retainers are generally composed of an acrylic frameand wires bent into a predetermined configuration and insertedpermanently into the frame at the time of fabrication, where one or morewire components can be adjusted to apply a force on the tooth for toothmovement

The disadvantages of the acrylic spring retainers include, but are notlimited to, the following: The fabrication process is prolonged anddifficult, especially as related to the fabrication and incorporation ofsmaller parts into the frame assembly. The size and thickness of thespring retainer can result in discomfort for the user and impede theuser's speech. For practitioners, the acrylic spring retainers are oflimited utility because they are generally limited to use on a smallnumber of anterior teeth and they have limited capability to align theteeth.

Clear shell aligners are also removable appliances used to align theteeth that are of uniform thickness, cover the entire surface of theteeth, and must be changed with each subsequent movement of teeth.

The disadvantages of the clear shell aligners include, but are notlimited to, the following: The user may experience discomfort becausethe aligners cover the entire surface of the teeth and the aligners maydiscolor with use, resulting in an unpleasant appearance. The uniformityof the clear shell aligners precludes application of deferential andprecise force on specific teeth. For example, because of this, it isdifficult to accomplish expansion of the arch successfully.

SUMMARY

In light of the present need for an orthodontic assembly to facilitatetooth movement and/or bite correction, a brief summary of variousexemplary embodiments is presented. Some simplifications and omissionsmay be made in the following summary, which is intended to highlight andintroduce some aspects of the various exemplary embodiments, but not tolimit the scope of the invention. Detailed descriptions of a preferredexemplary embodiment adequate to allow those of ordinary skill in theart to make and use the inventive concepts will follow in latersections.

The orthodontic assembly to be used in a user's mouth, includes a framemember configured to be removably positioned proximate the lingualportion of the user's teeth including a fastening mechanism, and aninterchangeable clip member configured to be removably affixed to theframe member such that the clip member engages at least one of theuser's teeth. The fastening mechanism is configured to cooperativelyengage the clip member such that the clip member may be removablyaffixed to the frame member.

In various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the frame member hasa rigid portion configured to engage an inner portion of the user'smouth and a portion configured to engage at least one of the user'steeth.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the framemember includes a first rigid portion, a second portion, and a flexibleintermediate portion provided intermediate to the first rigid portionand the second portion to provide flexibility to the frame member. Theintermediate portion may have a flexible c-shaped cross-sectionconfigured to provide flexibility to the frame member.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the framemember includes a rigid portion having a first track member and a secondtrack member in spaced relation to each other. The first track memberand second track member each extend along an inner portion of the user'smouth and are cooperatively configured to operatively engage one or moreclip members.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the framemember includes a first portion configured to engage a first lingualportion of the user's teeth, a second portion configured to engage asecond lingual portion of the users' teeth and an adjustment memberprovided intermediate to the first and second portion to apply a forceintermediate to the first and second portion to facilitate expanding thepalate.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the framemember includes one or more tab members that extend from an innerportion of the frame member, permitting the frame member to be removablyfastened to fixed screws inserted in the user's mouth.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the clipmember includes a first portion configured to engage the frame memberand a second portion configured to engage one or more of the user'steeth.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the clipmember includes a portion configured to operatively engage the framemember and a flexible portion configured to operatively engage the toothto facilitate tooth movement.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the clipmember includes a retentive member configured to engage a portion of oneor more of the user's teeth.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the clipmember includes a first portion configured to engage a lingual portionof the user's tooth and a second portion configured to engage a buccalportion of the user's tooth.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the clipmember includes a governing portion that cooperatively engages a lingualportion and an occlusal portion of the user's tooth to facilitate bitecorrection and tooth movement.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the firstclip member includes a fastening portion that removably cooperativelyconnects to the frame member and second clip member, and a governingportion that extends over the occlusal surface to the buccal surface ofthe user's tooth to facilitate bite correction and tooth movement.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, theorthodontic assembly further includes a bonded member fastened to atleast one tooth, the bonded member configured to cooperatively engagethe clip member such that the clip member and connected frame member maybe removably affixed to the bonded member, so as to facilitate toothmovement and retention.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the clipmember is operatively connected to the frame member and engages two ormore teeth to facilitate tooth movement or retention.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the clipmember has an engagement portion which includes a first flexiblevertical wavelike member and a second flexible vertical wavelike membersjoined in a middle section to facilitate tooth movement.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the clipmember has a flexible engagement portion that includes a plurality offlexible extension members and bristles that extend from the clip toengage and facilitate tooth movement.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, theorthodontic assembly further includes a labial bow member that extendsalong an outer portion of the users' teeth and configured to operativelyengage a first clip member connected to a first side of the orthodonticassembly and a second clip member connected to an opposing second sideof the orthodontic assembly.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, theorthodontic assembly includes at least two clip members, each includingan outer lip portion including a locking portion configured toreceivably engage a corresponding inner edge of the labial bow member.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the clipmember is removably fastenable to an outer portion of the frame member.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the clipmember is removably fastenable to an inner portion of the first trackmember and second track member of the frame member.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, theorthodontic assembly, further includes a band member configured toreceive a tooth member therein, the banded member configured tocooperatively engage the clip member such that the clip member andconnected frame member may be removably affixed to the banded member, soas to facilitate tooth movement and retention

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the framemember is positioned proximate to the palatal portion of the user'steeth and the clip member fastenably engages a receiving portion of theframe member and includes a ramp portion configured to engage theopposing teeth in the mouth to facilitate bite correction.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the clipmember includes an elastomeric pre-loaded biasing member configured tooperatively engage at least one tooth to effectuate tooth movement.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, anadjustment member includes a clip with a flexible biasing memberconfigured to exert a force on the first portion and second portion ofthe frame member so as to facilitate expanding the palate.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, an upperassembly includes at least one clip member with a first hook extendingin a first direction and a lower assembly includes at least one clipmember with a second hook extending in an opposing second direction ofthe first hook, wherein the first hook and second hook are operativelyconnected with at least one biasing member so as to facilitate bitecorrection and tooth movement.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the clipmember is provided intermediate to the frame member and user's tooth.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the framemember is configured and manufactured to fit in a selected user's mouthvia 3-D printing.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the clipmember is configured and manufactured to engage the frame member andtooth via 3-D printing.

In light of the present need for a versatile orthodontic componentassembly, a brief summary of various exemplary embodiments is presented.Some simplifications and omissions may be made in the following summary,which is intended to highlight and introduce some aspects of the variousexemplary embodiments, but not to limit the scope of the invention.Detailed descriptions of a preferred exemplary embodiment adequate toallow those of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the inventiveconcepts will follow in later sections.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is an environmental occlusal view of a user's mouth, showing aframe member of an orthodontic assembly positioned about the lingualsurface of the user's teeth;

FIG. 1B is an environmental occlusal view of a user's mouth illustratingthe orthodontic assembly including the frame member having intermediateportions and a plurality of interchangeable active components andremovable clip members operatively engaged with the frame member;

FIG. 1C is a side cross-sectional view of the frame member of FIG. 1B,including an intermediate flexible C-shaped portion provided along acentral portion of the frame member;

FIG. 1D is a side cross-sectional view of the frame member of FIG. 1B,illustrating an intermediate flexible helical coil shaped portionprovided along a central portion of the frame member;

FIG. 1E is an environmental internal view of the frame member of FIG.1B, illustrating an intermediate sinusoidal shaped portion providedalong a central portion of the frame member;

FIG. 1F is an environmental internal view of the frame member of FIG.1B, illustrating an intermediate vertical wave-like configurationprovided along a central portion of the frame member;

FIG. 2A is an environmental internal view of the orthodontic assemblyincluding the frame member of FIG. 1B and a variety of clip memberconfigurations operatively engaged with a lingual surface of the user'steeth in a first position;

FIG. 2B is a side cross-sectional view of the orthodontic assembly ofFIG. 2A and clip member, including a flexible intermediate component;

FIG. 2C is a side cross-sectional view of the orthodontic assembly ofFIG. 2A illustrating the clip and screw member fastened to the framemember and operatively engaged with a lingual portion of the user'stooth in a first position;

FIG. 2D is a side cross-sectional view of the orthodontic assembly ofFIG. 2A operatively engaged with a lingual portion of the user's toothshowing the tooth moved into a second position;

FIG. 2E is a side cross-sectional view of the orthodontic assembly ofFIG. 2A illustrating a clip member having bristle shaped pads componentsengaged with a tooth;

FIG. 2F is a side cross-sectional view of the orthodontic assembly ofFIG. 2A illustrating a clip member having a flexible configurationengaged with a tooth;

FIG. 3A is a side cross-sectional view of another embodiment of theorthodontic assembly, illustrating the frame member and clip memberengaged with an over layer of clear shell component covering both frameand clip members and extends to the buccal surface of the tooth toenhance the tooth alignment and retention;

FIG. 3B is a side cross-sectional view of another embodiment of theorthodontic assembly, illustrating the frame member and clip member inoperative engagement with the lingual surface and incisal edge of theuser's tooth;

FIG. 4A is an environmental side sectional view of the clip member ofthe orthodontic assembly covering the occlusal surface of the teeth, forfacilitating tooth movement and bite alignment;

FIG. 4B is an environmental side sectional view of the clip membercovering the occlusal surface of the teeth for facilitating teethmovement and bite alignment;

FIG. 4C is top occlusal view of the orthodontic assembly and clip memberof FIG. 4A, illustrating the governing portion extending over the toothto facilitate teeth movement and bite alignment;

FIG. 5A is a side cross-sectional view of another embodiment of theorthodontic assembly including a clip member having a contoured C-shapedconfiguration with a flexible portion operatively engaging an undercutof the lingual portion of the user's tooth;

FIG. 5B is a lingual side view of the orthodontic assembly and clipmember of FIG. 5 A, engaged with a lingual portion of the toothillustrating a clip member with leaves connected thereto;

FIG. 6A is an occlusal partial top view of an embodiment of theorthodontic assembly, illustrating a clip member operatively engagedwith a member in bonded connection with a user's tooth;

FIG. 6B is a side cross sectional view of the orthodontic assembly ofFIG. 6A, illustrating the clip and frame members and bonded member in anoperatively engaged connection;

FIG. 6C is a lingual side view of the orthodontic assembly of FIG. 6Aengaged with the lingual surface of the user's tooth;

FIG. 7A is a top view of another embodiment of the orthodontic assemblyillustrating a bonded member operatively engaged with a tooth;

FIG. 7B is a side cross sectional view of the orthodontic assembly ofFIG. 7A, illustrating a wire member in operative engagement with thebonded member;

FIG. 7C is a side cross sectional view of the orthodontic assembly ofFIG. 7A, illustrating another embodiment of the bonded member;

FIG. 8A is a lingual view of an orthodontic assembly including a bondedmember and clip member having a biasing component for tooth movement andretention;

FIG. 8B is a lingual view of an orthodontic assembly of FIG. 8Aillustrating the biasing component in an extended position;

FIG. 8C is a top view of the orthodontic assembly of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 8D is another embodiment of the orthodontic assembly including abonded member and a wave like biasing member;

FIG. 9 is an environmental top view of the occlusal surface of a user'smouth illustrating another embodiment of the orthodontic assemblyincluding an embodiment of a track frame member, positioned about thelingual portion of the user's teeth;

FIG. 10A is a cross-sectional side view of the orthodontic assembly ofFIG. 9, illustrating the frame member and clip member operativelyengaged with a tooth;

FIG. 10B is lingual perspective view of the orthodontic assembly of FIG.9 illustrating the clip member with operative engagement with the framemember

FIG. 11A is a lingual perspective view of an embodiment of anorthodontic assembly illustrating the track frame member of FIG. 9 and asliding clip member connected to a biasing member;

FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional side view of the sliding clip member ofFIG. 11A configured for operative engagement with a track frame member;

FIG. 11C is an occlusal environmental view of the orthodontic assemblyof FIG. 11A;

FIG. 11D is a lingual perspective view of an embodiment of anorthodontic assembly illustrating the track frame member of FIG. 11A anda sliding clip member connected to a biasing member using elastic bandsfor tooth movement;

FIG. 11E is an occlusal environmental view of the orthodontic assemblyof FIG. 11D;

FIG. 12A is a cross sectional side view of a pre-loaded biasing clipmember connected to the track frame member of FIG. 9, providing abiasing force on an engaged tooth;

FIG. 12B is an environmental lingual view of the pre-loaded biasing clipmember and frame track member interconnected;

FIG. 13A is a cross sectional side perspective view of an embodiment ofan orthodontic assembly including a clip member engaged with a framemember positioned on a palatal surface for engagement with the lowerincisors to facilitate bite correction.

FIG. 13B is an occlusal top view of the upper palate illustrating theorthodontic assembly and clip member of FIG. 13A positioned in theframe;

FIG. 13C is a lateral, side view of the hooks component originating froma frame or clips on the frame (not shown) of the upper and lower archesand connected with elastic rubber bands for bite correction;

FIG. 13D is a lateral, side view of components originating from a frameor clips on the frame (not shown) of the upper and lower arches andconnected with a spring for bite correction.

FIG. 14A is an environmental top view of an embodiment of an orthodonticassembly provided on a palatal surface of the mouth, including anadjustment member for expanding the palate using a spring clip;

FIG. 14B is an environmental top view of an embodiment of an orthodonticassembly provided on a palatal surface of the mouth for expanding thepalate using a screw clip member;

FIG. 14C is environmental view of a clip member removably insertableinto a portion of the adjustment member of 14A;

FIG. 15A is a frontal view of a labial bow member attached to a specialdesign component;

FIG. 15B is a frontal view of another embodiment of the labial bowmember configured to connect to a special component in FIG. 15A,

FIG. 15C is a frontal view of another embodiment of the labial bowelastic module member configured to connect to a special component inFIG. 15A,

FIG. 15D is a frontal view of another embodiment of the labial bowmember illustrating decorative features.

FIG. 15E is a detailed frontal view of the special configure componentin FIG. 15A and labial bow member connection;

FIG. 15F is an exploded detailed view of the special configure componentand labial bow member connection of FIG. 15E;

FIG. 15G is another embodiment of the orthodontic assembly including alabial bow member assembly;

FIG. 15H is a side cross sectional view of the orthodontic assembly ofFIG. 15G, illustrating the labial bow member and clip member connection;

FIG. 15I is a top sectional view of the orthodontic assembly of 15G,illustrating the labial bow member and the clip member connection;

FIG. 15J is a frontal view of the orthodontic assembly of 15G,illustrating the labial bow member and the clip member connection;

FIG. 16A is an environmental occlusal view of another embodiment of theorthodontic assembly positioned about the lingual surface of the user'steeth and engaged with a band member for retaining the frame membertherein;

FIG. 16B is a cross-sectional view of the band member and clip memberand frame member connection;

FIG. 17A is an occlusal view of another embodiment of an orthodonticassembly having a temporary anchorage device supported frame;

FIG. 17B is a cross-sectional view of a part of the frame member of FIG.17A operatively connected to an inner portion of the user's mouth andtemporary anchorage device

To facilitate understanding, identical reference numerals have been usedto designate elements having substantially the same or similar structureand/or substantially the same or similar function.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As previously discussed, conventional fixed orthodontic assemblies areundesirable esthetically; pose difficulties for the user to maintaingood oral hygiene; and do not provide the precision and customizationneeded to selectively exert a force on a particular tooth, or group ofteeth. One of the inherent disadvantages to existing removableappliances relates to the difficulty of fabrication and limitationsrelated to the application of force on the teeth, as discussedpreviously. Accordingly, it is desirable to use a removable orthodonticassembly that is not uniform in its construction and application offorce on the teeth. Such a removable orthodontic assembly provides anesthetic alternative to a fixed orthodontic assembly in that it can beremoved from the mouth to permit proper oral hygiene care or removed forlimited periods of time for the user's esthetic preferences (forexample, when attending a formal event). When configured with versatileflexible components, a removable orthodontic assembly can exert preciseforce on one or more selected teeth and reduce the force exerted onteeth excluded from treatment. The components can be changed withsubsequent movement of the teeth and/or changes to the bite without theneed to replace the entire appliance. It is also desirable to have aremovable retainer assembly with flexible components that isincorporated into the frame assembly. Such an assembly can be used toallow desirable teeth settling following fixed orthodontic treatment andto regain minor tooth movement as teeth shift and relapse to anundesirable position due to poor retainer wear by the user.

3-D printing of embodiments of the orthodontic assembly providesversatility with one or more interchangeable clip members which mayinclude the combination of a single extension, plural extensions,bristles pads, rests, clasps, occlusal coverage, or any other desirablecomponent to precisely engage any part of the selected tooth or teeth,aid in securing the assembly on the teeth or in the mouth, or havecomponents that are used to aid in teeth alignment, bite correctionand/or habit modification. Further, 3-D printing of the orthodonticassembly provides customizable clip members having a variety of selectedsizes, materials, shapes, directions, thickness, flexibility,configurations, and extensions, which may vary depending upon the dentalpractitioners/installers' desired treatment results.

3-D printing of embodiments of the orthodontic assembly providesversatility in fabricating a frame member, designed to allow attachmentof a clip or group of clips, and having a variety of selected sizes,materials, shapes, directions, thickness, flexibility, configurations,and extensions. 3-D printing of embodiments of the orthodontic assemblyprovides versatility in fabricating the frame member with intermediateflexible parts or with any other flexible components to be positioneddirectly or indirectly on the teeth, which may include the combinationof a single extension, plural extensions, bristles, rests, clasps,occlusal coverage, or any other desirable component to precisely engageany part or parts of the selected tooth or teeth, aid in securing theassembly on the teeth or in the mouth, or have components that are usedto aid in teeth movement, bite correction, and/or habit modification.

3-D printing of embodiments of the orthodontic assembly providesversatility with frame assembly. This versatility allows the assembly toachieve desirable teeth settling following fixed orthodontic treatmentand regain minor tooth movement as teeth shift and relapse due toundesirable positions caused by poor retainer wear by the user. Theforegoing are illustrative of those that may be achieved by the variousexemplary embodiments and are not intended to be exhaustive or limitingof the possible features which may be realized. Thus, these and otherfeatures of the various embodiments will be apparent from thedescription herein or can be learned from practicing the variousembodiments, both as embodied herein or as modified in view of anyvariation that may be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly,the invention resides in the novel methods, arrangements, combinations,and improvements herein shown and described in various exemplaryembodiments. To facilitate understanding, identical reference numeralshave been used to designate elements having substantially the same orsimilar structure and/or substantially the same or similar function

Referring now to the drawings, wherein the illustrations are forpurposes of describing one or more embodiments and not for the purposesof limiting the same, FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate an embodiment of theorthodontic assembly 100. FIG. 1A is configured for facilitating toothmovement, and/or tooth retention, when positioned in operativeengagement in the user's mouth and teeth T. The orthodontic assembly 100generally includes a frame member 102, and one or more clip members 104(not shown), removably attachable to the frame member 102. The clipmember 104 may be connected to the frame member 102 using a variety offastening features, such as a snap-fit connection, or a screw fastener,for example.

The frame member 102 has a generally arcuate or U-shaped configuration,which via 3-D printing may include a rigid and/or a semi-rigid structurethat is configurable to conform to the upper and/or lower palate of auser's mouth. Accordingly, via 3-D printing, the frame member 102 may beselectively customized for the user by scanning the interior of theuser's mouth, and forming the frame member's structure based on thetopography and/or shape of the interior of the user's mouth detected bythe 3-D printer scan.

Notably it is contemplated that tooth movement may be effectuated usinga “virtual tooth movement process.” In this process, the user's teethare scanned at several preselected views. A virtual mold of the user'steeth is then created and the user's teeth are then virtually moved inimages and to create a series of virtual molds upon which theorthodontic assembly is virtually created and printed. The Printedcomponents of the assembly have a number and/or a letter to facilitatethe assembly and subsequent replacement of the components.

Accordingly, the frame member 102 may be comprised of. but not limitedto, metal, photo-hardening polymer and/or a variety of differentmaterial conducive for 3-D printing. It is contemplated that the 3-Dprinting methods used for manufacturing the frame member 102 mayinclude, however are not limited to, fused deposition modeling, as wellas, additive manufacturing processes for metal sintering, such asselective laser sintering, direct metal laser sintering or selectivelaser sintering, for example. Notably, other known 3-D printing methodsused to manufacture metal and/or polymer devices, similar to the framemember 102, clip members 104 and other active components of theorthodontic assembly 100 are contemplated

The frame member 102 is configured to receive one or more clip members104 and other attachable components in a variety of configurations. Asillustrated, the frame member 102 may include one or more extrusionsand/or grooves 106 that are adaptable to receivably fasten a portion ofthe clip member 104 to the frame member 102. Similar to the frame member102, the clip member 104 and other interchangeable components, may beconfigured using 3-D printing methods. The clip member 104 andcomponents are configurable via 3D printing such that when the selectedclip member 104 is fastened to the frame member 102 it exerts apre-selected biasing force on the user's teeth based on the manufacturedshape

FIG. 1B illustrates an embodiment of the orthodontic assembly 200,similar to that of the orthodontic assembly 100 illustrated in FIG. 1A.The orthodontic assembly 200 illustrated in FIG. 1B may be comprised ofa combination of flexible portions, semi-flexible portions and rigidportions integrally connected together with flexible intermediateconnectors. As illustrated in FIG. 1B, the orthodontic assembly 200 mayinclude a combination of different components to facilitate toothretention and/or movement. The components of the assembly may include,but are not limited to, one or more interchangeable clip members 204,one or more retainer members 212, one or more C-clasp member 214, andone or more force elements 208, which may be integrally connected to theframe member 202 or connected by intermediate flexible connector, tooperatively engage the tooth. Notably, these components may beselectively configured and manufactured via 3-D printing. Differentmaterials can be incorporated into the fabrication of the orthodonticassembly such that the different components can be made of differentmaterials. An example of this multi-material fabrication would be thefabrication of flexible titanium alloy active components, whilefabricating other components of the assembly with polymeric materials.As part of this fabrication process, after initial fabrication of the3D-printed first part, it is scanned and the second or same machine iscalibrated with the 3D geometry of the first part to fabricate thesecond part by adding and building/mounting new and differentmaterial(s) in a preselected area so that the first part is imbedded andretained in the new material.

The frame member 202 may include a variety of different connectionpoints and different levels of rigidity, and may be constructed fromdifferent materials which can be facilitated by 3-D printing.Accordingly, the frame member 202 may be a rigid or semi-rigid structureof virtually any shape, size, or thickness that, directly or indirectlyvia the clip members 204 and other components such as intermediateconnectors, facilitate tooth movement, retention, support, habitmodification and/or teeth and jaw alignment. Similar to theaforementioned embodiments, the frame member 202 may be manufacturedusing 3-D printing methods to provide a precise and conforming fit withthe user's mouth.

The frame member 202 is customizable to the user. As illustrated in FIG.1B, the frame assembly 202 may include an upper portions 203 a, 203 bpositioned proximate to the teeth T, a lower portions 205 a and 205 bpositioned proximate to the user's palate, front portion 201 connectedtogether with a flexible intermediate portion 207. As previouslydiscussed, the frame assembly 202 is customizable via 3-D printing, thusany of the portions 203 a, 203 b, 205 a, 205 b, 201 and 207 of the frameassembly 202 may be selectively configured with a variable range ofrigidity and materials during manufacturing.

FIGS. 1C-1D are cross-sectional views of embodiments of the frameassembly 202 of the orthodontic assembly 200. As illustrated in FIG. 1C,the intermediate portion 207 c of the frame assembly 202 may include aflexible C-shaped element 215 c positioned between the top portion 203and lower portion 205 of the frame assembly 202. The C-shaped structureprovides a gap or opening 217 formed therein permitting the structure207 c and connected frame assembly 202 to bend or flex when inserted inthe user's mouth thereby providing sufficient force to move the tooth orteeth into a selected position through the upper portion 203 of theframe assembly 202.

FIG. 1D is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of theorthodontic assembly 200 and frame assembly 202. The frame member 202may have a generally flexible helically-coiled element 215 d providedgenerally at the intermediate portion 207 d between upper portion 203and lower portion 205 of the frame assembly 202. Similar to theaforementioned embodiment, the helically-coiled element 215 d bends whenthe assembly is inserted in the user's mouth therefore providing theforce to move the tooth or teeth into a selected position through theupper portion 203 of the frame assembly 202. FIG. 1E is lingual view ofanother embodiment of the orthodontic assembly 200 and frame assembly202. Similar to aforementioned embodiments, the frame assembly 202 hasupper portion 203 and a lower portion 205 and an intermediate flexibleelement 215 e positioned at the intermediate portion 207 e, between theupper portion 203 and lower portion 205. As illustrated, the flexibleelement 215 e includes one or more generally horizontally positionedsinusoidal wave-like structure 215 e that weave between the upperportion 203 and lower portion 205 of the frame assembly 202, providingthe frame assembly 202 with flexibility.

FIG. 1F illustrates another embodiment of the frame assembly 202 andorthodontic assembly 200. The active component is operatively connectedto the frame assembly 202 by one or more vertically aligned sinusoidalwave-like elements 215 f. This flexible integral connection permits theactive component to flex relative to the frame member 205. Asillustrated in this embodiment, two wave-like elements 215 f extendbetween the frame member 205 and active component 208. Notably, morethan two wave-like elements 215 f may be provided to control therigidity and flexibility of the intermediate part. Similar design can beincorporated into clip assembly for added flexibility.

The clip members 204 are customizable interchangeable components capableof being removably connectable to the frame member 201 or the frameassembly 202. The clip members 204 may be manufactured via 3-D printing.This permits the manufacturer to selectively customize the rigidity andflexibility and the material of the clip members 204 in accordance withthe user's needs.

The clip member 204 may be configured for a different functionsincluding but not limited to selectively exert a force on the tooth T orselected teeth, in order to facilitate tooth movement, retention, bitecorrection and/or habit modification. The clip members 204 may includeflexible components for exerting a biasing force on the engaged tooth orteeth. Accordingly the clip member 204 is configured to bend or flexwhen the orthodontic assembly 200 is positioned in the user's mouth.

FIG. 2A illustrates a plurality of clip members 204 a-f having a varietyof configurations, connected to the frame member 202 for effectuatingtooth movement/tooth retention. As shown, each clip member 204 a-f mayinclude a base portion 211 a-f configured for fastenable engagement withthe frame member 202, and a head or leaves portion 213 a-f configuredfor operative engagement with the tooth T. As you seen in FIG. 2B afterthe base portion 211 the rest of the clip may rest on the entire surfaceof the tooth, and accordingly is not limited to only the head portion.

As illustrated, the head portions 213 a-f of the clip members 204 a-fmay have a variety of configurations to selectively distribute forcesexerted on the tooth T by orthodontic assembly 200. For example, theclip member 204 b may be a singular flexible member 213 b thatsubstantially engages a lingual portion of the tooth T. In otherexamples, the respective clip members 204 c and 204 a may include agroup of smaller flexible vertical extension members/leaves 213 c orhorizontal extension members 213 a that cooperatively engage the surfaceof a tooth T to effectuate tooth movement or retention. The head member213 f includes two flexible vertical wavelike members joined together ina middle section. As shown, head members 213 d and 213 e have multipleflexible members joined with a pattern.

Accordingly, it is contemplated that virtually any clip member 213 shapeor configuration can be designed to effectuate tooth movement orretention

It is contemplated that the head portions 213 a and 213 c of therespective clip members 204 a and 204 c, may be constructed to coverapproximately the same surface of the tooth T as the singular flexiblemember 213 b of the clip member 204 b. The contact surface area betweenthe active part of the clip member and the tooth surface may vary anddepend on, the shape of the tooth, the amount of force and direction offorce needed to effectuate tooth movement, and contact with the opposingtooth or teeth T. The contact surface area is not limited to theabove-mentioned factors.

The head portions 213 a and 213 c provide the respective clip members204 a and 204 c with a plurality of flexible thin extension membersengaged on the lingual portion of the tooth T. The head portions 213 aand 213 c may be configured to exert precise forces at selectedlocations on the tooth T. The tip of the clip member may provide most ofthe force but the rest of the clip can also provide force transitioningtoward the base of the clip member.

Most typical singular plate members are relatively rigid. In contrast,as illustrated in FIG. 2B, the singular plate clip member 204 mayinclude a flexible intermediate portion or feature 218 connected to anextension or leave member 213. Notably, multiple flexible intermediatefeatures, or similar flexible features, 218 may be added to the clip toenhance flexibility, as illustrated in FIG. 2F. As shown in the clipmember 204 f has an upper engagement portion 213 f which includes afirst curved member that engages an outer portion of the selected toothand a second curved member that engages an opposing outer portion of theselected tooth to facilitate provide added flexibility.

Notably, it is contemplated that the clip member 204 and otherengagement components in cooperation with the flexible feature 218 willhave the flexibility to be provided as a singular flexible plate memberthat engages one tooth T.

As shown in FIG. 2B-2E the clip member 204 may be removably fastenableto the frame member 202 using a snap-fit connection. As shown the clipmember 204 may include fastening members 210 a-b and an opening 224provided there between for receiving a portion of the frame member 202therein. Additionally, one or more screws or fasteners 222 may be usedto further secure the clip member 204 to the frame member 202.

As illustrated in FIGS. 2C and 2D, tooth movement can be achieved byinterchanging different shaped clip members 204 with the frame member202 to selectively control the biasing force exerted to the tooth T. Inone example, a portion of the frame member 202 is received within therespective fastening members 210 a and 210 b of the clip member 204. Assuch the connecting features 210 a and 210 b engage the frame member202, thereby providing a secure snap-fit connection between the clipmember 204 and the frame member 202, as shown.

The clip member 204 may be configured to provide force to the tooth T atprecise locations on the tooth T. As illustrated in FIG. 2E, the clipmember 204 may include a plurality of bristles pads 226 that extendoutward from the head or leaves portion 213 applying an engaging forceto engage the tooth T. The bristles pads 226 may be configured with anyshape to enhance the contact surface area between the orthodonticassembly 200 and the tooth T.

In an embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the orthodonticassembly 200 provides occlusal coverage of one or more teeth T tofacilitate tooth movement and retention. As illustrated in FIG. 3A, theouter surface of the clip member 204, the frame member 202 and theremaining tooth surfaces are covered by a generally thin, governingmember 220 that may be configured to cover in addition to the clip andframe a portion of the tooth, the entire tooth, a group of teeth, or theentire arch, to facilitate tooth movement and/or retention. The thinclear shell governing member 220 is locked into corresponding lockingparts on the outside part of the frame and clip through a correspondinggrooves or holes in addition to the any other retentive part on theteeth

As illustrated, the clip member 204 is configured for engagement withthe tooth T and the frame member 202. The clip member 204 may be made ofmetal and/or polymer, or any other desirable material. The governingmember 220 provides a shell that includes a series of openings 233 and235 formed about the outer portions of the respective clip member 204and frame member 202. Accordingly, the governing member 220 fastenablyengages the outer portion of the frame member 202 and clip member 204and respective extrusions 235 and 233 locking the shell in to the framemember 202 and clip member 204. Alternatively, the governing member 220may extend and cover the extrusions 235 and 233 and lock the shell intothe frame and clip members for added retention. The governing member 220generally includes a first governing portion 218 that is configured forcooperative engagement with a lingual surface of the tooth T, as well asthe outer surface of the clip member 204 and frame member 202. Thegoverning member 220 further includes a second governing portion 228that covers the buccal surface of the tooth T.

The governing member 220 is fastenable to the frame member 202 and clipmember 204, covering both members and may extend over the rest of thetooth, adjacent teeth or the entire arch. To enhance aesthetics, it iscontemplated that the governing member 220 may be made of a generallyclear polymer material.

As illustrated in FIG. 3B, clip member 204 may also be configured topartially engage the incisal edge of the tooth T with an extensionportion or governing member 230 to effectuate occlusal coverage.Regarding FIGS. 3A and 3B, the occlusal coverage configuration of theclip members 204 may facilitate a variety of functions, including, butnot limited to facilitating tooth movement, opening or deepening of theuser's bite, reducing occlusal interferences during the tooth movementprocess, as well as further protecting the user's teeth from grinding orbruxism.

In an embodiment shown in FIGS. 4A-4C, the frame member 202 or the clipmember 204 may include a governing portion 221 a, 221 b that providesocclusal coverage of the posterior teeth T to aid in teeth movement orin bite correction for the user. FIG. 4A illustrates a pre-selecteddesired shape of occlusal surface of the teeth T. As illustrated in FIG.4A, the governing portion 221 a may be configured via 3-D printing toguide the bite into a favorable position when the user bites down on thegoverning portion 221 b so as to effectuate bite correction. A series ofgoverning portions may be needed to guide the bite into its finalposition.

As illustrated in FIG. 4B, the governing portions 221 a and 221 b may bea generally smooth surface, match the occlusal or lingual shape of theteeth or pre-selected shape to guide the teeth into a different and moredesirable bite, therefore facilitating bite correction. The pre-selectedshape for occlusal coverage can be progressively incorporated into newclips to ensure that the changes occur at a desirable speed according tothe patient's adaptation to the new bite. Similar to the othercomponents disclosed herein, shaping of the clip member 204 andgoverning portions 221 a, 221 b to provide accurate and optimal occlusalcoverage may be achieved via 3-D printing.

As illustrated in FIG. 4C, the governing portion 221 extends from theclip member 204 over the tooth T, such that when a user bites down, thelower jaw slides into a pre-selected position based on the shape andposition of the governing members covering the upper and lower teethsurfaces.

In an embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5B, the orthodontic assembly200 includes a frame member 202 and one or more a clip members 244operatively connectable thereto. The clip member 244 generally includesa stem portion 236 and a C-shaped extension member 238, contoured toengage the lingual surface of the tooth T. The C-shaped extension member238 extends generally from the mid-portion 232 of the clip member 244,providing a contoured surface that engages the outer contour of thetooth T. As shown, the C-shaped extension member 238 may includetapering tips 240 a, 240 b, provided generally on both ends of the clipmember 244. Notably, it is contemplated that the C-shaped configurationof the clip member 244 may also be used to engage the gingival area ofposterior teeth T for added retention, if desired.

One advantage of the orthodontic assembly 200 and C-shaped clip member244 arrangement is that the clip member 244 is capable of engaging theundercut on the lingual surface L of the teeth T, as illustrated. Thelingual engagement type of engagement is another benefit that theorthodontic assembly 200 provides. Other fixed orthodontic assembliesare usually blocked from engaging the area under the contour of thetooth which is called the “undercut area” U, as shown in FIG. 5A

Teeth movement and retention may also be facilitated and/or improved byusing bonded components or banded components attached directly to thespecific tooth or teeth designated for treatment. It is contemplatedthat the components may have virtually any shape or size desired and maybe fabricated using 3-D printing methods or other fabrication methods.It is further contemplated that the components may be comprised ofvirtually any material and may be bonded or otherwise attached to anypart of tooth. For example, a bonded member on the tooth T may engage aleaf, a wire, or a plate attached to a clip member. In another examplethe bonded member provided on the tooth T may directly engage the framemember of the orthodontic assembly.

In an embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6A-C, the orthodontic assembly 200includes a frame member 202, one or more clip members 244, and one ormore bonded components 242 configured to receive operative engagementwith the respective clip members 244. As illustrated, the orthodonticassembly 200 may be provided along the lingual surface of the tooth T.As such, the bonded component 242 may be connected directly to the toothT, via connection features such as bonding agents.

As illustrated in FIG. 6B, the clip member 244 generally includes anengagement feature 250, which may have a contoured C-shaped surfacecomplementary to the outer surface of the tooth T and interior surface248 of the bonded component 242. As illustrated, an opening 246 isprovided between the engagement component 250 and the upper portion 256of the clip member 244. The opening 246 formed between the engagementcomponent 250 and the upper portion 256 is configured for receivingtherein the connecting feature 252 of the bonded component 242, forminga connection between the engagement bonded component 242 and the clipmember 244. In an inserted position, the bonded component 242 helpssecure the clip member 244 onto the tooth T. As such, the clip member244 exerts a force on the bonded component 242 and directly to the toothT. The force and direction applied to the tooth T may be adjusted byincrementally adjusting the shape of the clip member 244 provided forconnection with the bonded member 242. Similar to the aforementionedclip members, adjustment and replacement of the clip member 244 toachieve a desired movement of the tooth T may be achieved by 3-Dprinting various customized clip members.

In another embodiment shown in FIGS. 7A-C, the assembly 200 may furtherinclude a bonded component 260, which may be connected directly to theouter surface of the tooth T. The assembly 200 further includes a wireor biasing member 270 which, in connection with a connected frame member200 (not shown), exerts a force on the connected bonded component 260 tofacilitate movement of the connected tooth T or for retention. The wireor biasing member 270 may be fabricated using 3-D printing or any otherfabrication methods. As illustrated in FIG. 7C, the bonded component 260may include a first portion 261 a and a second portion 261 b, and agroove 262 formed therebetween configured to receive the first portionthe biasing member 270 therein to effectuate tooth movement or retention

In an embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 8A-D, the orthodontic assembly 300includes a frame member 302, a clip member 304 removably connectable tothe frame member 302, and one or more bonded members 360 to achievetooth movement. As illustrated, the bonded member 360 is connected tothe tooth T. The bonded member 360 includes dual engagement members 362a, 362 b formed in a v-shaped configuration for receiving the clipmember 304 therebetween.

The clip member 304 generally includes a head portion 313 a operativelyconnected to a spring or biasing member 319 a, and a base member 311.Similar to the aforementioned embodiments, the clip member 304 may havea snap-fit connection with the frame member 302. The head member 313 ahas a v-shaped configuration for insertion between the dual engagementmembers 362 a, 362 b, of the bonded member 360. In an inserted positionwith the dual engagement members 362 a, 362 b, the head member 313 a andthe biasing member 319 a in cooperation with the clip member 304 andframe member 302 exerts a force on the bonded member 360, therebyexerting a force on the connected tooth T. As illustrated in FIG. 8D,the biasing member 319 b may have dual flexible members for exerting aforce on the bonded member 360 and tooth member T. The head member 313 dis inserted between the dual engagement members 362 a, 362 b of thebonded member 360

In another embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the orthodontic assembly 400 mayinclude a frame member 402 having a U-shaped track configuration forclip on components or for facilitating slidable movement of componentsalong the frame member 402. As illustrated, the frame member 402 mayinclude a track-like configuration including one or more rails 403 a,403 b configured to receivably permit one or more clip members 404and/or other interchangeable components to clip or slide along the framemember 402. As such, the clip member 404 exerts a force on one or moreteeth T

As illustrated in FIG. 10A-10B the clip members 404 may includeconnecting features or lips 405 a, 405 b, which are configured for aclip or snap engagement with the respective rails 403 a and 403 b of theframe member 402. The frame member 402 permits the clip members 404 toslide or clip along the frame member 402 for selective engagement withone or more of the desired teeth T The connecting features 405 a and 405b each include respective openings or grooves 307 a, 307 b for receivingthe respective rails 403 a, 403 b therein.

As illustrated in an embodiment shown in FIGS. 11A-11E, the orthodonticassembly provides a frame member 402 and a slidable clip member 404configured to engage the user's tooth T. The clip member 404 may includeone or more slides, or wheels 460 a, 460 b that permit the clip member404 to slide along the frame member 402 and respective rails 403 a, 403b. The clip member 404 may further include a sleeve member 406 which isconfigured to engage the buccal and lingual portions of the tooth.Engage the tooth like a ring or band around the tooth.

As depicted in FIG. 11A, the frame member 402 may be provided in theposterior area of the mouth to distalize the molar. The frame member 402is operatively connected to a clip member 404 which includes a partmember 408 to help in the seating of the band member 406 around thetooth T.

The orthodontic assembly 400 may further include a spring or biasingmember 464. The spring 464 may be pre-loaded such that when theorthodontic assembly 400 is positioned in the user's mouth, the spring464 exerts a force on the operatively connected clip member 404 andconnected tooth T, thereby facilitating tooth movement or retention.

As illustrated, the orthodontic assembly 400 may further include a rodmember 462. The rod member 462, which may be connected to the framemember 402 and extends along the rails 403 a, 403 b to provide guidanceand support as the clip member 404 slides along the frame member 402.The biasing member 408 and band member 406, which encloses the tooth T,is capable of sliding along frame member 402 and through lockingengagement 492. Rod member 462 may be rotated about a hinge member 494provided on one side of the clip member 404 into locking engagement witha hook 492 on the frame member 402 on the other side.

The rod member 462 hinged engagement with hook 494 allows the spring 464to be removed, activated, or replaced as needed. As illustrated in FIGS.11D-E, elastic rubber bands 468 may also be connected to a catch members408 on the band member 406 of the clip member 404, and to the outersurface of the frame member 402 and exert a biasing force on the toothT.

In an embodiment of the orthodontic assembly 400 illustrated in FIGS.12A and 12B, the clip member 434 is connectable to the track framemember 402 to exert a force on an engaged tooth T. The clip member 434may include a generally elastic module 433. Notably, the clip member 434may be provided with the elastic member, wherein the elastic moduleinserted into the frame member 402 and pre-loaded to exert a biasingforce on tooth T or group of teeth when in an engaged position. Theforce applied to the tooth T may be controlled by modifying the size ofthe clip member 434 and elastic module 433, or by adjusting the distancebetween the frame member 402 and the tooth T.

The clip member 434 may be operatively connected to one or more hooks,windows or grooves (not shown) provided in the frame member 402. Assuch, when the orthodontic assembly is positioned in the user's mouth,and the clip member 434 is seated in the frame member 402, the elasticmodule 433 may be compressed or stretched, thereby selectively exertinga force on the engaged tooth T or teeth. Notably, the clip member 434and elastic module 433 may be configured as one joined component.

The elastic clip member 434 may be interchanged with a clip member 434having a different shape or biasing force to force the tooth to move inthe desired direction. Notably, it is contemplated that clip member 434may be manufactured in customizable size, shapes, and colors, includinga clear color, using 3-D printing and any other manufacturing processes.It is further contemplated the clip member 434 may be used in theanterior portion of the mouth and attached to a fastening member such asa hook, which is described below herein.

In an embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 13A and 13B, the orthodonticassembly 500 may further include a frame member 502 including clipmembers 504 to facilitate “bite correction.” Notably, different clipmembers having different components may also be used for habitmodification. As shown, the clip member 504 may include one or moreangled or ramp portions 506. The ramp or inclined portion 506 may bepositioned for engagement with a portion of the lower teeth tofacilitate bite correction. It is contemplated that multiple clipmembers 504 may be provided with different positions of the ramp on theclip for the purposes of forward positioning of the lower jaw inaddition to opening the bite. Forward positioning is when the lower jawand teeth are forced into a position that is a more forward positionthan the natural closing position over a period of time until the newjaw position becomes permanent.

FIG. 13B is an occlusal top view of the upper palate illustrating theorthodontic assembly 500 and clip member 504 of FIG. 13A positioned inthe frame 502.

FIG. 13C is a lateral, side view of a hook component 512 originatingfrom a frame member 502 or clip member 504 on the frame (not shown) ofthe upper and lower arches and connected with elastic rubber bands 520for bite correction. FIG. 13D is a lateral, side view of componentsoriginating from a frame member 502 (not shown) or clip member 504 onthe frame member of the upper and lower arches and connected with aspring 510 for bite correction.

In another embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 14A and 14B, the orthodonticassembly 600 may be configured to facilitate widening of the arches of auser's teeth. The orthodontic assembly 600 includes a frame assembly 602of two portions 603 a and 603 b and an adjustment member 690. The frameassembly 602 and adjustment member 690 may be configured andmanufactured via the aforementioned 3-D printing methods. As such, theframe assembly 602 is configured and manufactured to conform to themiddle of the upper portion and/or lower portion of the user's mouth tofacilitate widening of the arches. As illustrated, the frame assembly602 may include a first portion 603 a and a second portion 603 bconfigured to receive a dual clip member active component 690 for theexpansion of the palate of the user's mouth. In one embodiment, archwidening may be achieved by inserting the assembly with the dual clipadjustment member 690 into the user's mouth, and providing after apredetermined time a replacement of the dual clip adjustment member 690incrementally increasing the force on the teeth forcing them apart.

The adjustment component 690 may be but not limited to, a rotatingactive component 690 b called hyrax, commonly used in fixed appliancesto expand the arch and the teeth in the mouth, FIG. 14 B, or a flexibleU-shaped spring member 690 a FIG. 14 A. The active member 690 ispositioned intermediate to the first portion 603 a and second portion603 b to apply a lateral biasing force or pulling force to each of theportions 603 a, 603 b. The adjustment component 690 may be adjusted,replaced or modified to vary the force exerted on the first and secondportions 603 a, 603 b. As such, during the adjustment process,replacement of the adjustment member 690 to selectively increase thebiasing or pulling forces of the adjustment member 690 on the portions603 a, 603 b either forces the first portion and second portion 603 a,603 b together to facilitate narrowing of the arches or pushes the firstportion 603 a and second portion 603 b apart, thereby facilitating ofthe expansion of the user's arches. The dual clip adjustment member 690may be removed after the expansion is accomplished and replaced by asimple bar to minimized discomfort associated with the size and shape tothe active components.

As shown in FIG. 14C the clip member 692 is removably insertable into aportion of the adjustment member 603 of the frame assembly 602. The edgeportion 680 is insertable into the aperture 684 formed in the adjustmentmember 603, and the clip portions 682 engage the inner edge of theaperture 684 thereby locking the clip members 692 to the adjustmentmember 603.

In an embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 15A-J, the orthodontic assembly800 includes labial bow member 804, which is configurable forpositioning in the anterior portion in the user's mouth and a componentmember 806. The labial bow member 804 is removably connected to thecomponent member 806 to apply a force or rest passively on the user'steeth. The component member 806 may be connected to a frame member (notshown).

As illustrated, the labial bow member 804 exerts a force on the user'steeth to facilitate tooth movement or rest passively on the user's teethand may include a variety of configurations. The labial bow 804 mayinclude an assortment of configurations, which may include, but are notlimited to, circles hearts and stars. Additionally aesthetic clips maybe used in combination with a connected frame member. The labial bowmember 804 is interchangeably replaceable such that a user ororthodontic professional may easily remove and/or replace the labial bowas desired. The labial bow member 804 may be inserted into an opening888 formed in the component member 806.

The labial bow member 804 may also include a fastening member 892 havinga wedge-shaped body. To facilitate the interchange of labial bow members804, the orthodontic assembly 800 further includes a component member806 having an aperture 888 formed therein configured to receive thefastening member 892 therein. As illustrated, the fastening member 892is inserted into the aperture 888 securing the bow member 804 to thehook member 806. Notably, the labial bow configuration permits a user toeasily interchange or adjust the labial bow members 804 with a differentlabial bow member 804 having different shapes, designs, materials orbiasing force on the teeth T.

Further, the labial bow embodiment permits the insertion of elastomericstring FIG. 15 C which is flexible and may be stretched permitting theball shaped endings to be inserted into the respective fastening members888.

The component locking member 806 may receive an either semi-rigid orelastomeric labial bow member therein, for added flexibility and forvisually aesthetic purposes. Notably the loop originating from 892 ofsemi-rigid configuration may be flexed to facilitate the insertion ofthe labial bow into the opening 888.

As illustrated in FIG. 15G, the labial bow may include a clear stripmember 814 that is provided about the outside portion of the teeth toachieve tooth retention and or movement. The clear serrated strip member814 slides into a locking clip member 844 that is attached to the frame802 or clip member 804 provided on a frame member 802. The length of theclear strip member 814 may be adjusted using a cable and tie feature.

As illustrated in FIG. 15H of the orthodontic assembly of FIG. 15Gincludes the labial strip member 814, a clip member 844 configured toreceive the labial member 814 therein. The clip member 844 includes aninner clip portion 822 and an outer clip portion 820 configured toreceive a portion of the labial member 814 therebetween. The outer clipportion 820 has a flexible body permitting the outer clip portion 820 toflex when the labial member 814 is slidably adjusted, thereby permittingthe labial member to slide therein.

As illustrated in FIG. 15I, the outer lip portion 820 includes a lockingportion 821, which engages a corresponding inner edge 824 of the labialbow member 814, locking the strip member in a selected position. Theclip portion 820 also includes a top edge member 826 which controlsmovement of the labial member 814. As illustrated, FIG. 15I is a topsectional view of the orthodontic assembly of 15G, illustrating thelabial bow member and the clip member connection. FIG. 15J is a frontalview of the orthodontic assembly of 15G, illustrating the labial bowmember 814 and clip member 804 relationship. Labial member 814 could beeither simple clear serrated strip or could be customized and 3D printedto fit the individual teeth of the user.

In an embodiment of the orthodontic assembly 900 illustrated in FIGS.16A-B, the orthodontic assembly 900 generally includes an arcuateU-shaped frame member 902 which via 3-D printing is adaptable to beconformed for positioning about the lingual portion of the user's teethT. The orthodontic assembly 900 further includes a tooth band assembly950 configured to receivably encompass a selected tooth or series ofteeth, and an extension from the clip member 904 or frame member 902configured for securing the frame member 902 to the tooth band assembly950.

As illustrated in FIG. 16A, the tooth band assembly 950 generallyinclude a band member 954 which is adapted to receive the user's tooththerein. A lip member 952 extends generally outward from the band member954. An opening 956 is formed between the band member 954 and lip member952, and is configured to receive a portion of the clip member 904 orframe member 902 therein. As illustrated, the clip member 904 isremovably connectable to both the frame member 902 and the tooth bandassembly 950, and as such, fastens the frame member 902 to the toothband assembly 950.

As illustrated in FIG. 16B, the clip member 904 extends from the framemember 902 in a generally upward direction. The clip member 904 includesa base portion 920 which is connected to the frame member 902 and a headportion 922 having a zigzag or sinusoidal wave-like configuration whichmay simultaneously engages the inner surface 962 of the lip member 952and the outer surface 964 of the tooth band member 954 to provide asecure connection thereto.

As illustrated, multiple band assemblies 950 may be provided to engagemultiple teeth and multiple locations in the mouth to provide multiplepoints of connections for the frame member. Further, as illustrated inprevious embodiments, the clip members 904 may be removably connected tothe frame members or integrally formed with the frame members. Bandmember assembly 950, frame member 902 and clip member 904 may all bemanufactured via a variety of manufacturing techniques including but notlimited to 3D printing.

In an embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 17A and 17B, the orthodonticassembly 1000 includes a temporary anchorage device (“TAD”) frameassembly 1005, configured to be removably fastened to a palate portion Pof the user's mouth using one or more fastening members 1046. Similar tothe previously described frame member 202 illustrated in FIG. 1B, theframe assembly 1005 has a generally U-shaped arcuate configuration,which is adaptable via the 3D printing or any other manufacturingprocess be conformed to the interior lingual surface of the selecteduser's mouth.

The frame assembly 1005 includes intermediate flexible or semi flexibleconnector members 1007, Also similar to the aforementioned embodiments,the orthodontic assembly 1000 may include a variety of interchangeablecomponents, including but not limited to, one or more retainer members1012, one or more clip members 1004, one or more integrally formedactive elements 1008, and one or more C-clasp members 1026

The frame assembly member 1005 having a lower frame portion 1050 mayinclude one or more tab members 1042. The tab members 1042 may bepositioned along the inner edge of the lower frame portion 1050 of theframe assembly 1005 and as such, extends in a generally inward directionfrom the inner edge of the lower frame portion 1050. The tab member 1042includes an opening 1044 configured to receive the fastening member 1046therethrough such that the secure the assembly 1000 in the mouth.

As illustrated in FIG. 17B, each TAD (temporary anchorage device)fastening member 1046 generally includes a shaft portion 1048 secured inthe palatal bone and head portion 1052 for securely fastening the member1042 of the frame assembly 1005 to TAD. It is contemplated that theframe assembly 1005 may include a plurality of tab members 1042, thuspermitting the orthodontic assembly 1000 to be securely fastened to thepalate of the user's mouth at multiple locations.

Though the various embodiments have been described in detail withparticular reference to certain aspects thereof, it should be understoodthat the invention is capable of other embodiments and its details arecapable of modifications in various obvious respects. As is readilyapparent to those skilled in the art, variations and modifications canbe affected while remaining within the spirit and scope of theinvention. Accordingly, the foregoing disclosure, description, andfigures are for illustrative purposes only and do not in any way limitthe invention, which is defined only by the claims.

1. An orthodontic assembly to be used in a user's mouth, comprising: aframe member configured to be removably positioned proximate the lingualportion of the user's teeth including a fastening member; and aninterchangeable clip member configured to be removably affixed to theframe member such that the clip member engages at least one of theuser's teeth, wherein the fastening member is configured tocooperatively engage the clip member such that the clip member may beremovably affixed to the frame member.
 2. The orthodontic assembly ofclaim 1, wherein the frame member has a rigid portion configured toengage an inner portion of the user's mouth and a portion configured toengage at least one of the user's teeth.
 3. The orthodontic assembly ofclaim 1, wherein the frame member includes a first rigid portion, asecond portion, and a flexible intermediate portion providedintermediate to the first rigid portion and the second portion toprovide flexibility to the frame member.
 4. The orthodontic assembly ofclaim 3, wherein the intermediate portion has a flexible c-shapedcross-section configured to provide flexibility to the frame member. 5.The orthodontic assembly of claim 1, wherein the frame member includes arigid portion having a first track member and a second track member inspaced relation to each other, wherein the first track member and secondtrack member each extend along an inner portion of the user's mouth andare cooperatively configured to operatively engage one or more clipmembers.
 6. The orthodontic assembly of claim 1, wherein the framemember includes a first portion configured to engage a first lingualportion of the user's teeth, a second portion configured to engage asecond lingual portion of the users' teeth and an adjustment memberprovided intermediate to the first and second portion to apply a forceintermediate to the first and second portion to facilitate expanding thepalate.
 7. The orthodontic assembly of claim 1, wherein the frame memberincludes one or more tab members that extend from an inner portion ofthe frame member, permitting the frame member to be removably fastenedto fixed screws inserted in the user's mouth.
 8. The orthodonticassembly of claim 1, wherein the clip member includes a first portionconfigured to engage the frame member and a second portion configured toengage one or more of the user's teeth.
 9. The orthodontic assembly ofclaim 1, wherein the clip member includes a first portion configured tooperatively engage the frame member and a second flexible portionconfigured to operatively engage the tooth to facilitate tooth movement.10. The orthodontic assembly of claim 1, wherein the clip memberincludes a retentive member configured to engage a portion of one ormore of the user's teeth.
 11. The orthodontic assembly of claim 1,wherein the clip member includes a first portion configured to engage alingual portion of the user's tooth and a second portion configured toengage a buccal portion of the user's tooth.
 12. The orthodonticassembly of claim 1, wherein the clip member includes a governingportion that cooperatively engages a lingual portion and an occlusalportion of the user's tooth to facilitate bite correction and toothmovement.
 13. The orthodontic assembly of claim 1, wherein a first clipmember includes a fastening portion that removably cooperativelyconnects to the frame member, a second clip member, and a governingportion that extends over an occlusal surface to an buccal surface ofthe user's tooth to facilitate bite correction and tooth movement. 14.The orthodontic assembly of claim 1, further including a bonded memberfastened to at least one tooth, the bonded member configured tocooperatively engage the clip member such that the clip member andconnected frame member may be removably affixed to the bonded member. soas to facilitate tooth movement and retention
 15. The orthodonticassembly of claim 1, wherein the clip member is operatively connected tothe frame member and engages two or more teeth to facilitate toothmovement or retention.
 16. The orthodontic assembly of claim 1, whereinthe clip member has an engagement portion which includes a firstvertical flexible wavelike member and a second flexible verticalwavelike members joined in a middle section to facilitate tooth movement17. The orthodontic assembly of claim 1, wherein the clip member has aflexible engagement portion that includes a plurality of flexibleextension members and bristles that extend from the clip to engage andfacilitate tooth movement.
 18. The orthodontic assembly of claim 1,further including a labial bow member that extends along an outerportion of the users' teeth and configured to operatively engage a firstclip member connected to a first side of the orthodontic assembly and asecond clip member connected to an opposing second side of theorthodontic assembly.
 19. The orthodontic assembly of claim 1 whereinthe orthodontic assembly includes at least two clip members, eachincluding an outer lip portion including a locking portion configured toreceivably engage a corresponding inner edge of a labial bow member. 20.The orthodontic assembly of claim 1, wherein the clip member isremovably fastenable to an outer portion of the frame member.
 21. Theorthodontic assembly of claim 5, wherein the clip member is removablyfastenable to an inner portion of the first track member and secondtrack member of the frame member.
 22. The orthodontic assembly of claim1, further including a band member configured to receive a tooth membertherein, the band member configured to cooperatively engage the clipmember, such that the clip member and a connected frame member may beremovably affixed to the band member, so as to facilitate tooth movementand retention.
 23. The orthodontic assembly of claim 1, wherein theframe member is positioned proximate to the palatal portion of theuser's teeth and the clip member fastenably engages a receiving portionof the frame member and includes a ramp portion configured to engage theopposing teeth in the mouth to facilitate bite correction.
 24. Theorthodontic assembly of claim 5 wherein the clip member includes anelastomeric pre-loaded biasing member configured to operatively engageat least one tooth to effectuate tooth movement.
 25. The orthodonticassembly of claim 6, wherein the adjustment member is a clip with aflexible biasing member configured to exert a force on the first portionand second portion of the frame member so as to facilitate expanding thepalate.
 26. The orthodontic assembly of claim 1, wherein an upperassembly includes at least one clip member with a first hook extendingin a first direction and a lower assembly includes at least one clipmember with a second hook extending in an opposing second direction ofthe first hook, wherein the first hook and second hook are operativelyconnected with at least one biasing member so as to facilitate bitecorrection and tooth movement.
 27. The orthodontic assembly of claim 1,wherein the clip member is provided intermediate to the frame member anduser's tooth.
 28. The orthodontic assembly of claim 1, wherein the framemember is manufactured using 3D printing such that the frame memberconforms to the user's mouth to facilitate bite correction and toothmovement.
 29. The orthodontic assembly of claim 1, wherein the clipmember is manufactured using 3D printing such that the frame member andclip member when engaged, cooperatively provide a force on at least oneof the selected teeth to facilitate bite correction and tooth movement.